In 40 seconds
Low back pain affects ~30% of regular golfers — making it the most common golf-related complaint. The asymmetric rotation, side-bending, and impact of the golf swing all stress the lumbar spine. PEMF therapy reduces lumbar inflammation and supports recovery alongside core and rotational strength work.
Quick facts
- Affects: ~30% of regular golfers
- Cause: Asymmetric rotation, side-bending, impact loading
- PEMF role: Reduces lumbar inflammation, supports recovery
- Pairs with: Core, hip mobility, swing review
Why this injury happens in this sport
Modern golf instruction emphasises hip mobility and core stability over pure 'big rotation' to spare the spine. Older players are more affected.
Recovery and return to sport
PEMF 2× per week for 6 weeks alongside core work, hip mobility, and a swing review. Modified swings during recovery.
Contraindications
Hard exclusions — do not have PEMF if any apply:
- Pacemaker, implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD), or any cardiac electronic device
- Cochlear implant or other implanted electronic hearing device
- Spinal cord stimulator, deep-brain stimulator, vagus nerve stimulator
- Intrathecal pump or implanted drug pump
- Insulin pump (continuous glucose monitors are usually fine — confirm with the clinic)
- Active infection at the treatment site
- Pregnancy — when treatment would be over the abdomen, lumbar spine, or pelvis
Discuss with your GP or specialist before booking if any apply:
- Active malignancy or recent cancer history (oncologist clearance required)
- History of seizures or epilepsy
- Multiple sclerosis or other neurological condition under specialist care
- Anticoagulant therapy (PEMF itself does not thin blood, but bruising risk if local circulation is already compromised)
- Children under 14 (most UK clinics will not treat under-18s without paediatric specialist input)
- Recent surgery within the last 14 days at the treatment site (confirm with surgeon)
NOT contraindications — these are commonly misunderstood:
- Plates, rods, screws and other passive metal orthopaedic hardware
- Dental implants and dental crowns
- Joint replacements (hip, knee, shoulder)
- IUDs (copper or hormonal)
- Tattoos and piercings (jewellery should be removed for the session)
Specific to this condition: pacemakers, defibrillators, cochlear implants, insulin pumps, electronic implants; active malignancy without specialist clearance; pregnancy (over the abdomen); active infection; epilepsy without GP clearance.
Frequently asked questions
Should I stop playing?
Reduce volume, not necessarily stop. Walking 9 holes vs riding 18 makes a big difference. PEMF supports faster recovery between rounds.
Looking for a PEMF clinic near you?
We list every credible PEMF therapy provider in the UK so you can find one near home.